Badaru Abubakar Steps Down as Defence Minister Amid National Security Overhaul

In a sudden move at a critical moment for Nigeria's security, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has tendered his resignation, citing health reasons, and has been swiftly replaced by President Bola Tinubu.

Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from his post with immediate effect. The resignation was confirmed in an official statement on Monday by Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, Abubakar submitted his resignation letter dated December 1, 2025, to President Bola Tinubu, attributing his decision to step down to health grounds. President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and thanked the former minister for his service to the nation.

The 63-year-old former two-term Governor of Jigawa State was appointed to the defence portfolio in August 2023. His departure comes as President Tinubu declares a national security emergency, with details on the scope of the government's new strategy expected to be unveiled soon.

The President is anticipated to present a nominee for the now-vacant defence minister position to the Senate for confirmation later this week.

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